Training for Learning and Serving, the main route for lay training in the United Reformed Church, has formed a new partnership with Chester University. From September, there will be an opportunity, for people to gain a two-year Higher Education Certificate or a four-year Foundation Degree validated by Chester. Those not looking for Higher Education qualifications will still be able to study TLS courses, without the University elements.

Finalising the agreement brings to a satisfactory conclusion a demanding but productive review for TLS,  following notification of withdrawal by the University of Bangor from their former validation partnership. Relationships with Bangor have remained amicable, and they continue to oversee the remaining studies of TLS students still registered with them. However, TLS has taken the opportunity to redefine and improve aspects of the programme ready for the new partnership.

The formal seal on the agreement will come from the Chester University’s Senate and the signing of partnership documents by the United Reformed Church general secretary, the Revd Roberta Rominger.

TLS Coordinator, the Revd Stanley Jackson says, “This is a massive achievement for us and a great vote of confidence in what we do. The Chester validation panel applauded TLS’s structure, delivery and diverse modes of assessment and they particularly remarked upon the innovative approach to the way in which biblical and contextual study are brought together. Those who were part of the process were made to feel very proud that the URC offers such a facility.”

There are currently more than 120 students pursuing either the Foundation Course or six more specialised courses in worship, pastoral care, prayer, performing arts, evangelism and community development work. Students engage in local study groups and weekend residential gatherings, undertake practical service and for some but not all pathways, complete written assignments. Enrolment for September 2009 is currently underway.

TLS also provides materials for a less demanding and more localised form of study called LITE, a Local Introductory Training Experience, which are not subject to university validation. The materials are available from the URC bookshop at cost price.

TLS has been delivered in various forms by the United Reformed Church’s Education and Learning Committee since 1995. For more details see the TLS section of the website.